As Delhi prepares for its 2025 Assembly elections, all eyes are on the youth, who are set to play a decisive role in shaping the capital’s political future. With over 20% of the electorate comprising first-time and young voters, political parties are tailoring their campaigns to resonate with the aspirations of this dynamic demographic.

The Youth Factor

According to the Election Commission of India, Delhi’s voter base has swelled to over 1.5 crore, with approximately 30 lakh voters aged between 18 and 29. These young voters, well-informed and socially conscious, are expected to prioritize issues like employment, education, and climate change over traditional political rhetoric.

What Young Voters Want

1. Employment Opportunities: Unemployment remains a pressing concern, with many young voters demanding clear and actionable job creation strategies.
2. Affordable Education: Access to quality higher education and skill development programs is a top priority for the youth.
3. Climate and Sustainability: Young voters are pushing for robust policies on pollution control, green energy, and sustainable urban planning.
4. Digital Governance: Tech-savvy voters are keen on greater integration of technology in governance to improve transparency and efficiency.

Parties Wooing the Youth

• Aam Aadmi Party (AAP): The ruling party is focusing on its record of delivering affordable education, skill development programs, and youth-oriented policies. AAP’s promise of creating more jobs through localized initiatives is a key highlight of its campaign.
• Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): The BJP is appealing to young voters with its vision of a “New India,” emphasizing large-scale infrastructure projects, entrepreneurial opportunities, and digital advancements.
• Indian National Congress (INC): The Congress is attempting to rebuild its connection with the youth by focusing on inclusive policies and addressing economic challenges, especially in education and job creation.

Youth Participation and Its Impact

Past elections have shown that voter turnout among the youth often lags behind other age groups. However, initiatives by the Election Commission and civil society groups aim to increase participation, emphasizing the importance of young voters in shaping Delhi’s future. Early surveys suggest a higher engagement this year, driven by pressing issues and active social media campaigns.

Conclusion

With their numbers and influence, young voters have emerged as the kingmakers in Delhi’s 2025 Assembly elections. Their choices will not only determine the political fate of the capital but also set the tone for India’s broader political discourse. As Generation Next steps up, the spotlight remains firmly on their priorities, signaling a potential shift in how elections are fought and won.